Ten Best Books for Church Leaders

Aside from the Bible and a few obvious recommendations, here is a list of ten MUST-READ books for Church leaders.

1. Seven Principle of Effective Ministry.  Andy Stanley released this in 2004, but it’s one of the best books pastors can read.
2. Simple Church.  Based on a broad study, this book calls for a simple model.  Your entire team should read through this book.
3. Making Vision Stick.  Andy Stanley makes the list twice with this excellent book on how to communicate vision.  It’s got wide applications – from sermons to announcements.
4. Axiom by Bill Hybles is a collection of leadership advice from someone who has been leading for a long time.
5. The Post American World is a MUST READ BOOK and I cannot recommend it enough.  Pastors need to broaden their vision, and this book is a great step
6. Making Ideas Happen by Scott Belsky will really help your team stay action-focused.
7. Why We Love the Church is one of my favorite books on the mission and vision of the local church.  While Barna is busy bashing, these guys will show you why the church isn’t going to die.
8. You Lost Me is a fairly new book, but it’s great reading that will shed light on why young people are leaving the church and what you can do about it.
9. The Zappos Experience made my list of business books, but church leaders should read it too.  If you want to be the kind of church that people talk about during the work week, this book will help you.
10. Brothers, We are Not Professionals by John Piper is a pastor’s classic.  Read it, and let it challenge you.